December 20 19:00, Riga Dome Cathedral

PROGRAMME: Compositions composed by LAURAS JĒKABSONE

„Advent Story” for mixed choir, soloists and kokle ensemble in 6 parts

„Xmas All around the World” for mixed choir, guitar and percussion

“ZIEMA” („Winter”) for mixed choir, soloist, piano and string orchestra – PREMIERE!

 

Choir’s „MASKA” Christmas concerts have become an integral part of the most wonderful time of the year. This year „MASKA” is celebrating its 15 Year Anniversary year of choir lead by its conductor Jānis OZOLS will give an exclusive concert called „ZieMASKAsvētki” („ChristMASKAs”) in the Riga Dome Cathedral on the fourth Advent.

The concert programme consists of the music composed talented composer, singer and leader of the vocal group Latvian Voices – Laura Jēkabsone. These compositions are written specially for choir „MASKA”, soloists and different instrumental accompaniment that will be performed by musicians recognized both in Latvia and abroad:

  • Kokle ensemble „BALTI”,
  • Guitar virtuoso Gints SMUKAIS, as well as
  • LATVIAN NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA string group and
  • pianist Aurēlija ŠIMKUS, who will perform the WORLD PREMIERE of composition „Ziema” (“Winter”)

 

 “Advent Story” is a story about winter – from its very beginning and Advent time till the birth of Christ. It is music that’s full of contrasts made by the diversity of performers, acoustics of the church and rhythm percussion.

„Xmas All around the World” will take you on a musical trip around the world in Santa’s sleigh, visiting France, Ukraine, Venezuela, Israel, South Africa, England, eventually coming back to Latvia, having collected the most beautiful solstice songs from all the nations.

Whereas composition „Ziema” (“Winter”) is original music by Laura Jēkabsone, that enlivens poetry of the greatest Latvian poets celebrating their 150th Anniversary – Rainis and Aspazija, as well as some lines written by the composer.

This concert programme is also recorded in a CD “ZIEMA” and will be issued at the beginning of December.

Choir “MASKA” is one the best mixed amateur choirs in Latvia, achieving high results in competitions in Latvia and abroad.  They are a creative unity and they stand out with a unique musicality and daring to be innovative by creating new interpretations and collaborations with other musicians.

Tickets available in all “Biļešu paradīze” box offices and www.bilesuparadize.lv

15% discount for students, pensioners and persons with disability. Free entrance for pre-school children if a separate seat is not occupied.